SteamHead
 | This article contains content that is written like an advertisement. (September 2018) |
| Formation | 2014 |
|---|---|
| Location |
|
Origin | Shenzhen, China |
| Website | SteamHead makerspace |
SteamHead is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the role of design in education.[1] Inspired by the Maker movement and S.T.E.A.M. education, SteamHead aims to empower communities through "creativity". The organization is supported by sponsors such as the British Council,[2] local charities, and schools, SteamHead also sponsors local events, including MakeFashion Edu[3] and School Maker Faires.
Founded in 2014 as "The MakeClub"[4] in an apartment, SteamHead has since grown and now operates from offices in the United States and a makerspace in Shenzhen, China. Currently situated in a public space, SteamHead host meetings for the Shenzhen Maker Ed community.
Description[edit]
SteamHead provides free space for the education community[5] to exchange information, collaborate, and share ideas. It brings together Cross-sections of teachers, students, parents, educational industry professionals, hackers, artists, DIY enthusiasts, and educational innovators.[6]
The main area of Steam Head's facility features communal worktables that can accommodate approximately twelve individuals, making it ideal for group activities. Towards the rear of the premises, visitors will find various specialized rooms, including a 3D printing area, a media recording studio, a tinkering kitchen, storage facilities, an outdoor balcony, and accommodation quarters for residents.[citation needed]
Steam Head's facility is equipped with craft supplies such as scissors, saws, screwdrivers, measuring tapes, an electronics workbench, a screen-printing setup, power saws, drills, cutters, projectors, printers, as well as tools and resources provided to primary school students. Members also have access to additional equipment, such as 3D printers and a large-scale drawing machine.[citation needed]
The core team, composed of volunteers, meets monthly to address various space-related matters, including renovation and equipment procurement. Additionally, the facility hosts several special interest groups that meet more frequently, often spontaneously. SteamHead operates daily, typically providing 24-hour access to its premises. Regular members may undergo biometric authentication to gain access to the facility.[citation needed]
Located on the second floor of a Shenzhen building constructed in the early 2000s, the space was originally designated for commercial purposes but has since been repurposed, with several areas converted into loft apartments.[citation needed]
History[edit]
Steam Head makerspace's was established by founding members Benjamin James Simpson, Carrie Leung, Luke Henderson, and Emma Cheung as a hub for educational research and development. As one of the first maker education spaces in Shenzhen, China, SteamHead traces its origin back to 2011, when it organized free language lessons for manufacturing workers in the Fujian and Guangdong provinces of China.[citation needed]
In 2014, the organization began offering science and technology lessons to migrant children in Shenzhen. By 2015, they had partnered with Litchee Lab to create educational programs and workshops. In 2017, SteamHead relocated and established a makerspace in Shenzhen, China.[citation needed]
References[edit]
- ^ Shangqing, Ye (September 2017). "Eye Shenzhen Magazine". Eye Shenzhen.
- ^ "Hello Shenzhen: Legacy and follow up grants". British Council | Creative Economy. Archived from the original on 2018-09-18. Retrieved 2018-08-30.
- ^ Simpson, James. "Students' dreams made into fashion". Shenzhen Daily. Retrieved 2018-08-30.
- ^ "Shenzhen Special 6 – Maker Ed". Looking Sideways. 2018-02-05. Retrieved 2018-08-30.
- ^ "6 Coolest Makerspaces of Shenzhen, China - Get in the Ring". Get in the Ring. Retrieved 2018-08-30.
- ^ Nylander, John (Feb 2018). "Silicon Valley of the East". AmChamHK. American Chamber of Commerce. pg 43